Minamiza theater

Minamiza is an old theater in Kyoto and is
located at the south side of Shijo Street and near Kamo River.
The eastern district of the theater is Gion.

Originally it is a Kabuki theater, and the Kabuki performances held
from last day in November to late December is a signature early winter
event of Kyoto.
The performences are called "Kaomise" ("Showing all faces", in
English), and all actors of a troupe appear on the stage.
And the names of all actors are written on the wooden boards
individually, and all of them are displayed above the front gate.
(It is called "Maneki". The meaning is "inviting guests".)

During the other season, various dramas or comedies are held.

In 1603, Izumo-no-Okuni performed a drama in Kyoto.
She was a female attendant of Izumo Shrine, and had been traveling
around Japan to raise money for the shrine.
Her performance gained much popularity, and it became Kabuki later.

After that, seven theaters for Kabuki were built around current Shijo
Street around 1620.
One of them has been Minamiza. "Minamiza" means "South Theater".
Because this theater is on the south side of Shijo Street.

By the late 19th century, six theaters of them had been discontinued.
Then only Minamiza has been using, even now.
The current building was rebuilt in 1929, and has been completely
remodeled without changing the appearance in 1991.

How to get to here

By subway

From Kyoto station, about 4
minutes to Shijo station, by Karasuma Line of subway.

From Shijo station, about 2
minutes to Kawaramachi terminal, by Hankyu Line. (The next station of
Shijo)